Johannesburg: South Africa is investigating two deadly mass shootings that left 28 people dead and 26 injured over the weekend, with police continuing efforts to identify and arrest those responsible.

The attacks occurred within hours of each other in Wedela near Johannesburg and Lwandle near Cape Town, adding to concerns over serious violent crime in the country. The combined death toll reached 28 after another victim from the Wedela shooting died in hospital.

Wedela Tavern Attack

The deadliest of the two incidents occurred at a tavern in Wedela, on Johannesburg’s West Rand. Police said armed attackers opened fire on people outside the venue before entering the tavern and continuing the shooting.

The attackers were reportedly carrying AK-47 rifles and pistols. Police said some victims were searched and their mobile phones were taken before the gunmen fled in vehicles. Two vehicles were also set on fire during the incident.

The death toll from the Wedela attack rose to 18, while several other people were injured.

Police have been investigating possible links to criminal groups operating in the area’s illegal gold-mining sector. Authorities have not established a final motive.

Lwandle Shooting

Several hours later, another shooting took place at an entertainment venue in Lwandle, near Cape Town.

Ten people were killed and 11 others were wounded in the attack. Police began searching for multiple suspects, and no arrests had been reported in connection with the two weekend shootings at the time of the latest reports.

Special Investigation Teams Deployed

South African authorities have deployed specialised investigative teams to pursue leads in the cases. Detectives are working alongside members of the South African Defence Force as investigators examine evidence from the crime scenes.

Police are also examining whether organised criminal activity, gang rivalry or other disputes may have played a role in the attacks. The motives have not been conclusively established.

Victims and Investigation

Authorities said some of the victims from Wedela have been identified, including South African citizens and nationals of Lesotho. Several injured people remain under medical care, with some reported to be in critical condition.

The investigation remains active as police work to identify the attackers and reconstruct the sequence of events at both locations.

The cases have also renewed public concern about the availability of illegal firearms and organised criminal networks in parts of South Africa.